TOS of Retirement

How does it feel to reach the age of retirement when you’ve spent your career strongly identifying with your profession? What happens when our value becomes untangled from what we ‘do’ to who we actually are? How do folks navigate that shift and what things arise when we find ourselves on the other side of our career? These are the questions that were floating around my mind when I asked my dear friend, Fraser, to sit down for a chat. Fraser Valentine, a senior leader in the Canadian Federal Public Service, hops on the pod for an open and honest conversation around his upcoming retirement. We delve into his journey from childhood aspirations to the significant roles he has held, particularly in Immigration and Refugee Affairs, and the challenges and rewards of his profession. Reflecting on personal experiences, including dealing with the loss of his father and coming out, Fraser contemplates the shift from a career-driven life to embracing retirement with gratitude and curiosity. This podcast touches on themes of purpose, transition, and the importance of making meaningful contributions beyond one’s careers.@the_otherside_pod